Sonar (Hindu traditions) in Nepal

People Name:	Sonar (Hindu traditions)
Country:	Nepal
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	76,000
World Population:	8,443,400
Primary Language:	Maithili
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.12 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Hindu - Sonar
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The name of the community is derived from the word sona meaning gold, and the people who work with gold are called Sunar or Sonar. Traditionally they are goldsmiths, but with the availability of better educational facilities the Sonar have become inclined towards education.
The Hindus among them are mainly in India, but smaller numbers live in Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They claim to have social status close to that of the Brahmins.
They allow for divorce and remarriage.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sonars are Hindus who worship whichever god they believe will bring them good luck and prosperity. Some are probably more philosophical in their spiritual lives.

What Are Their Needs?

A Sonar follower of Christ may lose his place in society and be ostracized. This is an important issue for high caste individuals. They need a group of people who are willing to embrace the only savior together.

Prayer Points

There are few if any Christian believers among the Sonar but pray for the ones that will soon be a part of this community.
Pray they be well instructed in the faith and will grow in maturity and in numbers.
Pray for the Sonar community to be humble enough to acknowledge their need for forgiveness of sin, and that they understand the provision for forgiveness that God has provided.